Back to school, back to the union?
It’s that time of year again — back to school! As teachers organize school supplies, establish classroom routines, and anticipate what the new school year will bring, they have something else to consider: Is union membership the right decision for them?
For a variety of reasons, educators are deciding that financially supporting the teachers’ union doesn’t work for them. Union membership is a personal decision, and just as educators encourage their students to be independent thinkers and hold true to themselves, so too should educators be trusted by their colleagues to make decisions that are best for them and their families.
The right to say “no” to union membership is just as important as the right to say “yes” — but educators first need to know they actually do have a choice. And it’s important that respect exists for that choice.
Saying “no thanks” to financially supporting the union is not an attack on teachers or the teaching profession. Rather, it’s an attempt to get the union’s attention and let them know they are missing the mark on what teachers want them to prioritize.
Join me this Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. to learn more about the big questions surrounding opting out of the teachers’ union in Minnesota.
Some of what will be discussed includes:
- Is the union the only one that can protect me from management?
- Will I lose my tenure or seniority if I am not a union member?
- Do I have to join the union to keep my teaching contract?
- Am I a bad colleague if I leave the union?
The September Opt-Out Window for Minnesota educators who are union members is officially open (Sept. 1-Sept. 30). Visit here to learn more about your options and how to exercise your rights!